Watch the Very First Production 2024 Lexus GX 550 Get Built in Japan
Toyota’s manufacturing process is an amazing thing to watch, especially when we get to the first 2024 Lexus GX 550 roll off the line.
It’s been a few months since the 2024 Lexus GX 550 was revealed, and needless to say, it was one of those rare debuts that pretty much satisfied everyone. In one fell swoop, Lexus transformed its popular, off-road-focused SUV into one of the coolest retro-inspired designs on the road, all while essentially squashing any controversy that existed over its decision to ditch naturally-aspirated V8 power in favor of a forced induction six-cylinder. Since the debut of the 2024 Lexus GX 550, many have been patiently awaiting the new SUV’s actual launch, and we’re getting closer to that by the day, as we can see in this video from Hagerty.
Famous all-around car guy Larry Chen was able to visit Toyota’s Tahara plant in Japan to see a momentous occasion in terms of the automotive development process – the very first new GX assembled there, and we’re talking about the very first production version, not some prototype or pre-production model. Chen is able to follow that entire process from beginning to end, and as one might imagine, it’s a truly fascinating spectacle to behold.
Before that begins, however, Chen is able to see the very last outgoing GX at the factory, signaling the end of a literal era and the beginning of an all-new one. From there, we’re treated to some pretty fascinating tidbits, including the fact that the arms of the machine that lifts the chassis onto the line are the same ones that were used for the old platform, and the process each goes through in terms of chemical dipping and everything else is identical.
The same goes for much of this process, which makes it more efficient and cost effective since the new GX can utilize much of the same equipment – including the assembly jib – as the old model. It’s a true testament to Toyota’s mastering of the production process that it can build a tremendous number of vehicles here and do so with the highest possible standards – which is also why it has such a stellar reputation for quality.
As Chen points out, there are so many machines working so efficiently here that it’s actually difficult to keep up with what’s happening, as the GX is simply flying from station to station, carried by a large robotic arm, as it comes together, piece by piece. Chen notes that in around five minutes, he watched roughly 10 vehicles get put together, in fact. However, the process for the very first production 2024 Lexus GX 550 is a bit slower, as it’s being treated to some extra scrutiny for obvious reasons. Regardless, the team at the plant points out that they’ve been working on this new project for three years now, and seeing all their hard work come to life is a feeling of satisfaction that’s hard to beat.
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